Source:
https://scmp.com/article/990386/letters

letters

Superheroes can be found at home

There are two people in my life who are my superheroes - my parents. They have supported and cared for me since I was born. I used to get sick a lot when I was small. My parents spent a lot of money and time taking care of me. Without them, I would not be as strong and healthy as I am today.

Once, when I was in primary school, I failed my mathematics examination, which upset me. I hated doing maths after that. But my parents' encouragement and support changed my mind and my attitude and my results improved.

My superheroes may not be the richest or smartest people in the world, but they are the ones that support and encourage me most.

Hung Tsz-yin, Tsuen Wan Public Ho Chuen Yiu Memorial College

Good values lead to bright future for HK

Children that are spoiled and pampered are sometimes called 'Hong Kong kids'. But why are their numbers increasing?

Firstly, there are more families with one child. An only child is often over-protected, so many do not become independent.

Moreover, Hong Kong is quite a materialistic city. Children get a lot of gifts and money and this can change their values.

Also, parent-child relationships are weaker because more families can afford to hire domestic helpers to take care of the children.

The younger generation is the pillar of Hong Kong's future and they need to have proper values instilled in them. Parents, teachers and even children are all accountable.

Maggie Lam, STFA Tam Pak Yu College

Basketball helped me change my life

I admire my basketball coach, Mr Tsang for helping me realise the value of being a team player.

When I started playing for the school's basketball team, in Secondary Four, I had never been in a team before. I worked hard, but was also often selfish and did not pass the ball to teammates. They did not like me very much.

I made a lot of mistakes in my first game. Also, I did not trust my teammates and still did not pass them the ball. Our team lost and I blamed myself. But Mr Tsang told me not to give up. He said we all had frustrations to overcome. We should help each other and if I did not just think about myself, the team would succeed. My teammates also tried to cheer me up.

After this pep talk, I realised I should change my views and not be too arrogant. I should listen to others and accept their ideas. This match changed my view on life.

Chao Pak-ho, Maryknoll Fathers' School

Don't take more than you can eat

Recently, I read about an organisation, Foodlink, that collects unwanted food and takes it to the needy. This is an inspiring, idea.

Restaurants, especially buffets, need to provide fresh food, but it also means they have to throw a lot away. However, this food is still edible and can be given to hungry families.

I admire this small charity and support its goal of wasting less food. To do my part, I will try to finish my meals. If I have too much food, I will share it with a friend.

I feel I have a duty to stop our food-waste problem. I will start by changing my own habits and spread the message to others to create a 'waste-less' society.

Zita Hung King-sung, Kit Sam Lam Bing Yim Secondary School

Social participation is good for all

I agree with the idea that participation in socio-political affairs enhances people's quality of life'.

Being an active member of society will help our understanding of the world. You will feel like you are making a difference, and this is fulfilling.

Social group activities also help enhance people's sense of belonging. You will expand your social circle by meeting people who have similar goals. As part of a group, you can also become more influential and effective.

Also if people express their opinions and address needs, it can enhance social harmony.

Political participation deepens the government's understanding of how to improve people's livelihoods. The government can communicate better with the public, and citizens can monitor the government's work.

Ng Ka-yee, The Chinese Foundation Secondary School